The best gravel rides around Hexham

The Hexham area offers a diverse mix of terrain, including extensive forest roads, quiet country lanes, and sections alongside rivers. You'll encounter varied surfaces from smooth fire roads to more rugged trails, particularly within areas like Kielder Forest and Northumberland National Park. Expect challenging climbs and rewarding descents, making it suitable for experienced gravel riders.

While many routes around Hexham are rated as difficult, there are some moderate options available. For instance, Slaley Forest offers primarily fire roads with some singletrack and minimal climbing, which can be a good starting point. The Hadrian's Cycleway (National Cycle Network Route 72) also features sections with gentle climbs and varied landscapes that are less strenuous.

Hexham's gravel routes often pass through areas rich in history and natural beauty. You can explore sections near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hadrian's Wall, offering views of Roman forts and rolling fields. Routes like the Slaley Forest – Hexham Abbey loop from Hexham will take you past the historic Hexham Abbey. Other notable sights include the Chollerford Bridge Over the River North Tyne and St Oswald's Church, Heavenfield.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Hexham are designed as loops. A popular option is the Blanchland Village – Derwent Reservoir loop from Hexham, which is a 30.1-mile (48.4 km) difficult trail connecting scenic villages and offering views of Derwent Reservoir. Another is the Uphill Road to Carrshield – View from Garret's Hill Bank loop from Whitley Chapel, a 21.3-mile (34.3 km) difficult path with panoramic views.

Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for gravel biking in the Hexham area, particularly within Northumberland National Park, as the weather is mild and the landscape is vibrant. While routes are accessible year-round, conditions can be more challenging in winter due to colder temperatures and potential for snow or ice.

The gravel biking routes around Hexham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders frequently praise the blend of natural beauty, challenging terrain, and the historical significance of the area, often highlighting the extensive forest roads and panoramic views from elevated sections.

Yes, the region around Hexham features quaint villages and towns that offer opportunities for pub or cafe stops. Routes that pass through or near villages like Blanchland, Corbridge, or Hexham itself will provide options for refreshments and breaks. The Hadrian's Cycleway also offers access to various amenities along its path.

There are over 10 gravel bike trails documented around Hexham on komoot, offering a variety of experiences. These range from moderate to difficult, catering primarily to experienced riders seeking challenging terrain and scenic beauty.

Yes, several routes in the Hexham area provide views of water bodies. The Blanchland Village – Derwent Reservoir loop from Hexham offers scenic views of Derwent Reservoir. Kielder Water, Europe's largest man-made lake, is also a short distance from Hexham and features the 26-mile Lakeside Way, an excellent gravel-friendly route.

For those seeking longer and more challenging rides, the Blanchland Village – Rookhope Arch loop from Hexham is a difficult 44.3-mile (71.2 km) route with significant elevation gain. The Sandstone Way, a 120-mile bridleway and byway route stretching from Berwick-upon-Tweed to Hexham, also offers challenging and scenic terrain for experienced gravel riders.

Hexham is well-connected by public transport, including train services, which can be useful for accessing the wider region. Many routes start directly from Hexham or nearby villages, making it possible to combine cycling with public transport. Always check local bus and train services for bike carriage policies and schedules.

Absolutely. The Uphill Road to Carrshield – View from Garret's Hill Bank loop from Whitley Chapel is specifically noted for its panoramic views from Garret's Hill Bank. Additionally, sections of the Hadrian's Cycleway near Steel Rigg offer particularly stunning vistas of the iconic wall and surrounding countryside.